Froilan ?The Sniper? Saludar won the WBO World Youth Flyweight Championship by hammering Leimpetch Sor Veerapol of Thailand to the canvass in less than half of the first round at the Imus covered basketball court, Imus, Cavite. Leimpetch looked like he couldn?t get up for a while. But he did stand up and leaned on the ropes prompting veteran International referee Bruch McTavish to start the mandatory 8-counts. Before reaching eight, however, Leimpetch staggered and appeared to fall down. McTavish waved the fight over.
The 21-year old newly adopted son of Imus, Cavite did not disappoint the overflow crowd led by Mayor Homer Saquilayan. With the win, Saludar?s record improves to 11 wins, 8 by KOs, 0 loss and 1 draw.
Before the start of the 68-round ?The Next Prospect VIII? card presented by SGG Sports and Sampson LLC Promotions, I had a talk with veteran International referee Bruch McTavish. I asked if he had seen or refereed any of Saludar?s previous fights. Bruce said no. He said that heard from others, though, of Saludar?s growing favorable reputation.
When the fight was over, I asked Bruce on his assessment of Saludar. ?Better than Manny Pacquiao at his age and weight?, Bruce answered.
An ecstatic promoter Sammy Guello-ani couldn?t hide his awe of Saludar?s performance. ?As a prospect fighting a veteran in Leimpetch, I expected only a decision win by Saludar.?
WBO Asia-Pacific Vice President Leon Panoncillo presented the beautiful WBO World Youth Flyweight championship belt to the latest Filipino world boxing champion.
The Imus, Cavite municipal government will honor Saludar during this coming Monday morning flag ceremony. A fitting salute to Saludar!
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